Malcolm, a resident emu at Brockswood Animal Rescue in Sedgley, is set to welcome two new companions, Willow and Fern, after a period of profound loneliness. The move comes as staff at the sanctuary recognised Malcolm's need for company following the recent death of his previous partner, Sandy, earlier this year.
Malcolm's history at the rescue has been marked by loss. His first partner, Edwina, died in 2017 after the pair were attacked by a swarm of bees, an incident that also left Malcolm with lasting injuries. He remained the sole emu at Brockswood for several years until 2024, when Sandy joined him. However, staff were heartbroken when Sandy passed away from egg peritonitis, a condition common in egg-laying birds that can develop without warning signs.
Lydia Parker, a senior keeper at Brockswood, expressed the team's concern for Malcolm. "We could tell he was missing her quite a lot, so we were on the hunt for new friends," she told the BBC, noting that while staff provide enrichment, they cannot replace the companionship of another emu. Brockswood also shared on social media that while Sandy would never be replaced, finding new friends was "essential" for Malcolm's welfare.
Willow and Fern, both one year old, have now made the journey of over 100 miles from Cardiff to their new home in Sedgley. They are currently settling into a paddock adjacent to Malcolm's, with plans for a full introduction into the same enclosure over the coming weeks. Initial interactions have been positive, with the three emus showing interest in each other through their respective gates.
The team at Brockswood is optimistic about the future. "He's quite an active boy as he is, and we hope they'll bring out a younger fun side of him," Ms Parker commented, highlighting that at over 20 years old, these are the youngest emus Malcolm has ever met. It is hoped that the youthful energy of Willow and Fern will give Malcolm "a new lease of life and keep him on his toes."